The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), has announced a new bill aimed at ensuring that no court case lasts longer than 24 months.
This bill, known as the Administration of Civil Justice Law (ACJL), has been forwarded to the State House of Assembly for legislative consideration to facilitate the speedy delivery of justice.
Once passed into law, litigation in trial courts will be limited to a period of 18 to 24 months, while tenancy matters are expected to be resolved within three to six months.
Pedro also mentioned that the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved funding for the completion and furnishing of the JIC Taylor Magistrate Court House in Igbosere, as well as for the payment of 34 official quarters for Magistrates.
In a briefing to newsmen about the upcoming Strategic Stakeholders Meeting and his first year in office, held at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa Ikeja, Pedro stated, “The goal is to ensure that no tenant can avoid paying their landlord, nor can landlords evict their tenants while a matter is in court.” Notices may be issued, but they will not be permitted as a means of oppression for either party.
He emphasized that no tenant would be allowed to hold onto their landlord’s money simply because a case is pending in court. Pedro acknowledged that issues related to delays in legal advice and prosecution within the Criminal Justice System have been addressed.
Additionally, the Lagos State Criminal Information System (LSCIS) has been established to capture photographs and biometrics of inmates, aiding in the identification of cases involving individuals in Lagos State correctional centres.
Pedro also highlighted other innovations, including a proposed bill to create a Lis Pendens Registry for land matters. This registry will serve as a repository of information on land disputes pending in court, preventing unsuspecting purchasers from buying land that is under litigation.
“This initiative will not only reduce incidents of third-party interests arising from ongoing court cases but also enhance confidence in real estate investments within the State,” he added.
Another proposed bill seeks to establish a Customary Marriage and Dissolution Registry for the registration and dissolution of customary marriages. Pedro explained that this would allow residents of Lagos State to obtain customary marriage certificates and certificates of dissolution.
Furthermore, Governor Sanwo-Olu has approved funds for the completion and furnishing of the JIC Taylor Magistrate Court House and provided details about the upcoming Strategic Stakeholders Meeting, scheduled for October 23, 2024.
Themed “Enhancing Collaboration for Effective Justice Delivery,” the meeting aims to strengthen inter-agency cooperation and improve law enforcement across Lagos State. Pedro stated, “This meeting is a direct response to insights gained from the Lagos Justice Summit held in May this year, where key stakeholders identified the need for enhanced cooperation within the justice system.”
“One of the summit’s primary recommendations was to convene this strategic meeting to elevate the standards of justice, ensuring it becomes a tangible reality for all residents of Lagos State. The meeting will serve as a vital platform for engaging with various stakeholders to harmonize the operations of government agencies, improve service delivery, and reduce government liability in land administration, physical planning, and environmental management.”
Pedro reiterated the Ministry of Justice’s commitment to maintaining Lagos State as a leader in the rule of law, fiscal federalism, and the reform of justice administration and good governance. These objectives are being pursued through various directorates and departments within the ministry.
He listed the different directorates under the Ministry of Justice and their functions: the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Directorate of Commercial Law (DCOMLAW), Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC), Directorate for Citizens’ Rights (DCR), Public Advice Centre (PAC), Office of the Public Defender (OPD), Administrator General and Public Trustee (AG & PT), and Directorate of Civil Litigation (DCL).
